Chepngetich’s marathon world record stands despite her doping ban

Ruth Chepngetich set the women’s marathon world record in Chicago, running 2 hours, 9 minutes and 56 seconds.

Five months later, she failed a doping test and was banned from competition for three years.

The test found hydrochlorothiazide, a banned substance, at 20 times the legal limit; Chepngetich said she had taken her housemaid’s medication after feeling unwell.

Her record still stands because she passed a test after the race, and anti-doping rules protect results from before a positive test.

The Athletics Integrity Unit, which handled her case, says the situation is not satisfactory, while the World Anti-Doping Agency says there is very little that can be done.

The record’s continued recognition raises concerns about athletics’ credibility, especially because it was set shortly before her ban.

Chepngetich is banned until 2028, while her record remains on the books.